Retention

Removable Retainers

Following removal of your active orthodontic appliances, Dr. Melanie will provide a set of upper and lower retainers to stabilize the dental correction. It is essential that the retainers be worn as instructed, as the bone and soft tissues surrounding the teeth take time to stabilize. Following the protocol established by Dr. Melanie will ensure you enjoy your new smile for many years to come.

If you do not wear the retainers, you may experience movement of the teeth resulting in the need for re-treatment. Your final result depends on you wearing your retainer, so it is important to follow all instructions. Please remove your retainers before eating food or brushing and flossing your teeth, and please clean your retainers before placing them back in your mouth.

Hawley Retainers

One of the most common retainers, this retainer is removeable and made of metal wires and sturdy acrylic. The acrylic comes in many colors and patterns, making it customizable for each Patient.

Essix (Clear) Retainers

This is a transparent removable retainer fitting over the entire arch of teeth, similar in appearance and wear as an Invisalign® aligner.

How retainers are worn

TTeeth tend to shift throughout life. We recommend individuals who receive orthodontic therapy continue to wear retainers indefinitely to insure lasting results for their new smile. Patients may be seen periodically for retainer adjustments. Dr. Melanie will work with you to determine how often you should wear your retainer to maintain results. Typically, a retainer is worn full time at the beginning, tapering down to night wear only and then a few nights a week.

Fixed retainers (Bonded Wire)

Patients with pre-existing orthodontic concerns, such as rotated teeth or spacing between the teeth, may benefit from a fixed retainer following active orthodontic treatment. A fixed retainer is a small piece of wire bonded behind the affected teeth which aids in stability. Other patients simply prefer this option instead of a standard removable retainer. Dr. Melanie determine if a bonded retainer is right for you.

We work hard to give you a beautiful smile lasting a lifetime. Wearing your retainer and following other advice from Dr. Melanie is essential to helping you achieve your goal of a beautiful new smile.